The Newton Poll is a weekly compilation of reader comments on subjects of local interest. The Newton Citizen publishes as many comments as space allows. Comments, which may be edited for space or content, are published anonymously on Sunday. To submit a comment, call 770-483-7108, ext. 403, email: poll@newtoncitizen.com or complete the online form.

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“What are we going to do when China and Japan say ‘We’re sorry you owe us too much and are too much of a risk! We can’t lend you any more money.’”

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“What happened with the GPC softball team this week? Something about a texting scandal. Did players get booted? Was law enforcement involved?

Editor’s note: According to Coach Ken Deyton and GPC Lt. Andy Moore, the issue on the softball team was handled internally and law enforcement was not involved.

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“Please let taxpayers know what the truth is with the GPC softball team and the alleged texting harassment. What is up?”

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“What is up with the Newton BOE? They had an awkward moment of silence at the last meeting on 10/22 but no prayer again. Are they under litigation? One lady said afterwards there are more than 20 suits against this board. Is it true? What is the cost to taxpayers? I know the bus lawsuit was filed. Did the elementary principal at Rocky Plains have prior knowledge of the wild fox and let kids go out anyway? … ”

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“I thought it weird that a school board member went on a verbal rant Tuesday night giving out awards he made up for after-school programs that apparently have not improved our test scores. NCSS is on the wrong track and for Pete’s sake cut out the childish mandatory Tweets for teachers and stop making up your own awards out of desperation. It is embarrassing.”

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“I was proud to hear Covington Academy will expand. Newton will be a better community if we have more private school options. The public schools in Newton are often dangerous and are verifiably performing below state and national standards.”

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“I am confused about a report … about the Christian Learning Centers offering education during the day called ‘release time’ to public school students. Has the BOE not gotten enough lawsuits already? SACS does not even accredit this release time during the day unless students are going to a college or work-based internship-type program. What are these people in Newton thinking? I am a Christian and believe students need to pay attention to math and reading during the day. I cannot see any legal way a CLC is going to be allowed to do this. Can someone please explain? Who is pushing this? It is not accredited from what I have learned and won’t cut it. … ”